When you are planning to travel to the United States – whether you are coming from Asia, Europe, or from other parts of the world – you’ll think about New York City, Orlando in Florida, Las Vegas in Nevada, or Los Angeles in California. Not as many travelers would include Philly and the things to do in Philadelphia on their list of places to visit. But we tell you, if you don’t, you are definitely missing a lot. This largest city in Pennsylvania is well-loved especially by those who want to travel back in time and explore the history of the country. 

You know why? Philadelphia is dubbed as the “city of firsts.” Founded in 1682, this city is one of the first cities of the United States, and is home to several significant “firsts” that shaped what America is today. Also referred to as “the birthplace of America,” Philadelphia was the meeting place of the First Continental Congress and the Constitutional Convention. It also became the first capital of the United States! Also, it is here where the country’s two most important documents were written and signed, the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution.

But that’s not all. Philadelphia is the place for the first lending library, the first hospital, the first university, the first art museum, the first zoo, and even the first computer. This Pennsylvania city is also home to the first women’s medical college, and the first children’s hospital, among others. Did you know it is also here where the first Mother’s Day was first celebrated, the first Thanksgiving Day parade was conducted, and the first ice cream soda was made?

We know you are yearning to find out the best things to do in Philadelphia after hearing those things. So read on. 

Welcome to our “things to do in Philadelphia’ guide. Read more guides on our website. 

12 Best Things To Do In Philadelphia

We’re not going to stall you any longer. Let’s begin the countdown of the best things to do in Philadelphia right now.

1. Visit The Birthplace Of The USA, The Independence National Historical Park

Philadelphia is quite unique compared to other cities in the United States, because, for one, this is where the birthplace of the USA is. Presenting, the Independence National Historical Park. As the experts, and they’ll say that this is the top tourist attraction in Philadelphia.

The Independence National Historical Park is teeming with history. Aside from being the birthplace of this wonderful nation, it is also America’s most historic square mile and home to Independence Hall. 

At the Independence Hall, the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776 was hosted. And a few years after, in 1787, the Continental Congress converged here for the U.S. Constitution.

Located across the Independence Hall is the Liberty Bell, which has become a symbol of American independence and freedom for the country’s people. This is also a popular photo spot in Philly, as many tourists make sure to take a selfie with the Liberty Bell and flaunt it around.

2. See The Setting Of The ‘Rocky’ Movie

If you are looking for unforgettable things to do in Philadelphia, coming up next will surely astound you. Are you a film enthusiast and loved the classic sports drama movie of the 70s and early 80s, “Rocky,” particularly “Rocky III”?

Well, some scenes of “Rocky III” were shot here at the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Since then, the 72 steps have become a worldwide sensation. Tourists from many parts of the globe feel it all and trek up the stairs. They pump their firsts in the air like how it was done in the movie, while they enjoy the beautiful views of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and the city skyline. Cheesy yet so much fun, right? Don’t forget to take a photo with the bronze statue for Rocky, originally made for “Rocky III,” located at the bottom of the stairs. 

3. Take On A Food Adventure At The Reading Terminal Urban Market

We know what you’re thinking when we speak about Philly, but keep on reading this “things to do in Philadelphia” guide. We’ll get there. For now, we’ll take you on a preview of Reading Terminal, the perfect place for everybody looking for fresh delights. 

Pronounced “Redding,” Reading Terminal is also filled with history, just like the other landmarks here in this city. It is one of the oldest and biggest urban markets across the country. If you want to hashtag support local, this is the perfect place to. 

Here, you can find cheesesteaks, ethnic foods, ice cream, and several farm-fresh produce. There’s also the Amish markets where you can grab freshly-baked whoopie pies and pastries, cheese straight from the farm, and a wide range of canned pickled goodies (who doesn’t love this snack?). If you are craving for sweets, stop by Beiler’s Donuts and Bassetts Ice Cream (the latter is the oldest ice cream company in the States).

4. Experience A Bit Of Paris At Benjamin Franklin Parkway

Paris is an entirely different city – and magical at that – so you should not compare it to cities like Philadelphia. But Philly has a bit of the City of Light. At the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.

Benjamin Franklin Parkway is Philly’s most picturesque boulevard, certainly one of the most beautiful boulevards in the world. Would you believe it is patterned after Champs-Élysées in Paris? Yes, you’ll fall in love. 

This boulevard in Philadelphia grandly stretches from the City Hall to the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Various things to do in Philadelphia can be done here. There are mesmerizing fountains and lovely patches of green spaces. Some of the best museums in the city are also nearby. If you’re in Philly, don’t forget to stop by Benjamin Franklin Parkway!

5. Capture Photos Of The World-Famous LOVE Sculpture At LOVE Park

Located just northwest of the City Hall, LOVE Park in Philadelphia is where you can find the world-famous LOVE sculpture by Robert Indiana. You are very familiar with it as this artwork is present in several merchandise worldwide, like shirts, fashion accessories, and more. 

Indiana was an artist who created so many pop art pieces. One of these has to be LOVE, first created in the 1960s as a form of a card he sent to several friends and acquaintances in the art community. 

This artwork has also since become an icon for the city. Standing like a beacon at 13 feet high, this colorful sculpture made with aluminum has become a market of identity for LOVE Park. 

You can take your photo with the sculpture, and enjoy the park that serves as the entrance to the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. There are also green spaces, comfortable seating, and a water fountain in the area.

6. Admire The Breathtaking Scenery Of Longwood Gardens

Longwood Gardens is not in Philadelphia proper, but the city’s official tourism website includes this on the list of the best things to do in Philadelphia. You can reach this legend after a 50-minute drive from Center City Philadelphia to Kennett Square. 

Breathtaking and oh-so-beautiful, even the non-nature enthusiasts will fall in love with Longwood Gardens. This 1,000-plus-acre mega garden in Chester County has 20 indoor gardens, 20 outdoor gardens, 11,000 various kinds of plants, dancing fountains, meadows, and woodlands. 

Events transpire here too. Be sure to catch the flower shows, educational programs, gardening demonstrations, concerts, musical theater shows, and children’s activities here at Longwood Gardens. 

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7. Be Transported To Something Magical At Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens

If you’ve been to Philadelphia’s natural oases and are looking for more, check out Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens, where some of the best things to do in Philadelphia are. 

Magic Gardens is a mixed media art museum located in South Street. It has two indoor galleries and a two-story outdoor sculpture garden. The space incorporates handmade tiles, bicycle wheels, mirrors, bottles, and folk art pieces, and each element depicts parts of the life of its creator Isaiah Zagar. 

Zagar has suffered from severe depression, but found mosaic art as his outlet and form of therapy. He then became an award-winning artist whose works can be witnessed throughout Philly. 

Here’s a reminder: be sure to take your time exploring the place, so you can see everything on display.

8. Don’t Miss Hanging Out At Philly’s Hip Waterfront

The now-beautiful Delaware River waterfront has a not-so-perfect past. It was once made up of undeveloped piers and underutilized public spaces. However, today, it has transformed into being one of the most activated spaces in Philadelphia where both locals and tourists hang out. 

There are several things to do in Philadelphia in this space, thanks to the many exciting attractions and parks here, such as Cherry Street Pier, Race Street Pier, Spruce Street Harbor Park, Blue Cross RiverRink, and Liberty Point. 

There are food stalls and a bar in this area where you can revel while listening to live music and reeling in the pretty views of the river. There are also food trucks and antique dealers selling their goods. Did we say don’t the gorgeous views of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge?

9. Let Your Kids Climb Through A Life-Like Heart At The Franklin Institute

Exploring Philly with the kids? Don’t forget to treat them to the best things to do in Philadelphia, such as at The Franklin Institute. 

Inspired by founding father, and scientist too, Benjamin Franklin, this science museum will be enjoyed by children and adults alike. There’s the “SportsZone” exhibit that tells about the science behind the world’s favorite sports like surfing and rock climbing. There’s also the “Changing Earth” exhibit where you can calculate your carbon footprint (what a way to contribute to caring for the environment, right?).

But perhaps the best highlight here is the “Giant Heart” exhibit where kids can climb through the chambers of a life-like heart. And that’s not all. As they do so, they can listen to the sounds of the human heartbeat. 

10. Try The City’s Very Own Philly Cheesesteak

With no doubt, Philadelphia’s dining scene will take your breath away. In fact, travel magazine Travel + Leisure said Philly “might be one of the best food cities on the East Coast.” Contributing to this will probably be the Philly Cheesesteak.

The Philly Cheesesteak has been named such because its home is here in this city. A popular fast food in the region, this cheesesteak is a sandwich made from thinly sliced pieces of beefsteak and melted cheese inside a long hoagie roll. 

As you research, you’ll find literally several restaurants that serve Philly Cheesesteak (of course, its home is Philadelphia), but the best would probably be at Geno’s Steaks and Pat’s King of Steaks.

11. Get Goosebumps At Eastern State Penitentiary

If Gotham City has Arkham Asylum, Pennsylvania has the Eastern State Penitentiary. Pennsylvania is a city rich in history, and this reputation won’t be complete without a justice system for those who committed wrongdoings. This is among the most unique things to do in Philadelphia. 

This historic landmark is a castle-like, Quaker-inspired prison that is unlike any other prisons because it sought to reform its prisoners using reflection and isolation instead of physical abuse and capital punishment. It was shut down in the 70s, but today, it is a landmark that tourists can visit. 

One of its highlights and among the most popular sections here is the cell of gangster Al Capone. The best time to visit this is during Halloween as the prison launches haunted attractions during this season. However, keep in mind that this place may not be appropriate for children. 

12. Be Sure To Try The Fresh Bread At Italian Market

Philly has inarguably one of the best dining scenes on the East Coast, so you’ll definitely find several things to do in Philadelphia that revolve around food.

Capping off our list of the best things to do in Philadelphia is your visit to Italian Market. Situated on South Ninth Street, this is an essential food experience whenever you are in Philly. There are several gourmet food vendors here selling imported goods, meats, cheeses, freshly roasted coffee beans, homemade chocolates, and so much more.

But, avid Philly travelers would say that before you head over to Italian Market, be sure that Sarcone’s Bakery is open. It would be a sin to visit the Italian Market without trying the fresh bread loaves from Sarcone’s Bakery. 

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Things To Do In Philadelphia: Getting Around 

There are so many things to do in Philadelphia, and without proper guidance on how to get around, you can be lost and might miss the best experiences, whether you are exploring the green spaces or trying out the city’s very own cheesesteaks. So here’s a tidbit about getting around in Philly. 

It is okay to walk around Philadelphia’s landmarks if you really want to save money and allot it instead to the more important attractions. However, aside from walking, the best way to get around town is the city’s transit system, the SEPTA or Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority. Accessible and bike-friendly, the SEPTA is one of the most comprehensive bus, subway, and commuter-rail systems not just in the city but across the United States.

It is also recommended for tourists traveling around Philadelphia to avail of the One Day Anywhere Flex Pass. Like the Octopus Card in Hong Kong, the One Day Anywhere Flex Pass already allows up to 10 rides on SEPTA buses, trolleys, trains, and subways, bringing you anywhere from Bensalem to the Phillies, from Alden to the Art Museum, or from Springfield to South Street. Knowing this, you’ll get to enjoy the best things to do in Philadelphia even more.

Visit Philadelphia Right Now

Philadelphia in Pennsylvania is full of history. After all, it is named as the “city of firsts.” The country’s history can be seen at Philly’s Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the city’s other American Revolutionary sites. But aside from America’s history and origins, you may also travel and experience the things to do in Philadelphia as a foodie because this city is home to one of the most luscious dining scenes worldwide. 

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